Chapter 261

Julian Montgomery remarked, "Everyone here seems to hold Victoria in high regard."

His guide smiled warmly. "Naturally. Ms. Kensington is exceptionally talented. The entire team admires her work."

He didn't mention the unspoken truth - that Victoria's connection to Alexander Whitmore brought substantial benefits to their department.

Hearing praise for his sister, Julian's chest swelled with pride. Yet he had no intention of interrupting her during work hours.

"Show me around the rest of the company," he requested instead.

"Of course."

As they exited, they nearly collided with Julian Montgomery arriving at the same moment.

The guide immediately straightened. "Mr. Montgomery."

Julian gave a curt nod, his sharp gaze assessing the younger man's student-like appearance. Recognition flickered but he remained silent.

"This is Ms. Kensington's brother, Julian Kensington," the guide supplied.

Though they'd never met, Julian recognized the name instantly. "You must be Julian," he ventured.

A single nod. "Hello."

Julian returned the greeting with equal brevity.

Before he could continue, Julian's attention snapped toward Isabella Sinclair working nearby. "I'll be over there," he announced abruptly.

Without awaiting response, he strode toward Isabella with purposeful steps.

Julian Kensington blinked in surprise.

Weren't Alexander's closest friends supposed to be on good terms with Victoria? Julian's indifference seemed... unexpected.

Not that Julian Montgomery cared about first impressions.

"Ms. Sinclair," he greeted when reaching her workstation.

Isabella turned, her expression freezing momentarily before smoothing into professionalism. "Mr. Montgomery."

Nearly half a month had passed since their last encounter - both consumed by year-end deadlines. Two days after their initial conversation, Julian had been abruptly summoned for confidential government meetings.

Not that he'd mention that now.

"Will you be attending our company banquet this weekend?" he inquired.

Isabella nodded. "Yes."

Ever since Julian's unexpected intervention regarding her uncle's situation, she'd noticed his markedly improved demeanor toward her.

Regardless of motives, he'd extended help when needed.

Their recent professional collaborations had proceeded seamlessly. When the personal invitation arrived, refusing would have been both unprofessional and ungrateful.

His lips curved slightly at her confirmation. "I appreciate that."

"You're too kind," she deflected politely.

Sensing her reluctance for extended conversation, Julian didn't press. "Don't let me interrupt your work."

Isabella returned to her discussion with Maxwell Sterling and the development team without further comment.

Yet Julian remained, observing their technical exchange with quiet intensity, occasionally interjecting pointed questions.

Though neither Julian nor Oliver Westbrook held operational roles at InnovaTech, as shareholders they'd be present for the impending annual meeting.

That very purpose had brought Julian here today.

Meanwhile, Victoria concluded her meeting and spotted her brother. "Finished touring?"

Julian nodded. "Saw everything worth seeing."

At that moment, Oliver Westbrook arrived.

"Victoria!" He greeted cheerfully before noticing her companion. "And this must be the famous younger brother? Impressive - the Kensington genes don't disappoint."

Victoria chuckled, about to make introductions when Julian interjected. "You're Oliver, right?"

Oliver's eyebrows shot up. "Spot on. Sharp eye."

Victoria opened her mouth again, but Julian scratched his head sheepishly. "Actually, I just met Julian earlier."

"Julian's here?" Victoria's gaze sharpened.

Julian gestured toward Isabella's workstation. "Over there."

Both Victoria and Oliver turned to observe Julian Montgomery engaged in what appeared to be an unusually amicable discussion with Isabella Sinclair.